Coenen is the J. Alton Hosch Professor at Georgia, where he has taught since 1987. He previously won the University's highest teaching award, the Josiah Meigs Award, and has been honored multiple times by the law school's students. The University provost, in making the announcement, said:

Dan Coenen is the consummate faculty member who richly deserves this recognition. He serves with distinction in all functions of the University of Georgia. An outstanding teacher, nationally-recognized scholar, superb leader and contributor to a myriad of committees, Dan contributes to the university with distinction and integrity.